Description
This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Casserole is an easy and flavorful dinner loaded with tender chicken, black beans, rice, and gooey cheese. Perfect for satisfying your Mexican food cravings on busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat:
- 5 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
Produce:
- 1 (14 oz) can low-sodium black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 (4 oz) can mild green chilies
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
Canned Goods:
- 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Pasta & Grains:
- 1 cup parboiled long-grain brown rice
Baking & Spices:
- 3 tbsp fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Oils & Vinegars:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Dairy:
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the fajita seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), tomato paste, and green chilies. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Add the chicken broth, corn, black beans, and rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the shredded chicken evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the skillet mixture over the chicken and spread evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Cheese:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken or add a squeeze of lime before serving.
- You can substitute white rice for brown rice, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
